Exploring the Neighborhoods of Istanbul, Turkey

Ana Korolija

Instagram: @_smallthings_inlife_

smallthingsinlife.net

My husband and I lived in Istanbul for two years and got to know it very well. It’s the only city in the world that lies on two continents: Europe and Asia. The fact that you can pass from the Asian to the European side by ferry in 30 minutes is simply amazing. People use this ferry not for sightseeing (there are cruises organized especially for that) but to cross the Marmara Sea while commuting during their daily lives. 

Some of the best sunsets I’ve seen in my life were from that ferry, and I swear that just one simple ride can completely change your mood for the better. Seeing the locals on the ferry, listening to different artists singing and playing live music, and then going out on the deck to feed the seagulls and watch the sunset is something priceless. I’ll always recommend this to someone visiting Istanbul, even though it’s not considered a touristy thing. Beside the main attractions like Hagia Sophia, Galata Tower, Blue Mosque, Ortakoy, there are so many gorgeous spots that are less touristy that will make your trip even more interesting. 

What I recommend visiting in Istanbul are the neighborhoods of Kadikoy and Fenerbahce (on the Asian side of the city), as well as Karakoy, Arnavutkoy, Beyoglu, and Balat (on the European side). In Kadikoy , you can find many interesting coffee shops and bars, as well as artsy stores selling handmade clothes, jewelry, and beautiful paintings. 

You’ll eat the best baklava if you go to Karakoy (the name of the shop is Karakoy Gulluoglu) and that’s where you’ll also find lots of cute coffee shops and restaurants. Fenerbahce has the most beautiful parks and a long promenade by the sea where you can relax and enjoy drinking coffee or Turkish tea while looking at the sea. Here you can also go for a run by the sea or have a picnic.

Beyoglu is the area around the Galata Tower. Even though this area is close to one of the main attractions in Istanbul, you’ll find small streets that are never as crowded as you would expect them to be. There are so many colorful shops, and if you’re looking for an authentic gift from Istanbul, then this is the place to be. In the Beyoglu area, you’ll also find the famous Istiklal Street and the red tram. 

Another place you can visit is Salt Galata, a contemporary museum located in an old building with a beautiful interior and exterior. Right across that building, you’ll see Kamondo Merdivenleri (Kamondo Stairs). These are Art Nouveau–

style stairs with an oval shape and are perfect for taking photos.

Arnavutkoy is one of Istanbul’s most beautiful neighborhoods. Not many tourists will come to this area, and the locals are keeping it a secret, more or less, since it’s one of the most peaceful neighborhoods in Istanbul. Here you’ll find the most beautiful old wooden houses with sea views. In Arnavutkoy, you’ll find some nice fish restaurants and pretty cafés. The beautiful wooden houses alone are worth seeing if you have time. These houses are called Yali mansions, and many have been renovated. Considering how old they are and their beautiful architecture, as well as the stunning views over the Bosphorus, it’s no wonder they hit the list of some of the most expensive properties in the world.

Balat is the place you’ll go to if you want to see more off-beat paths and real Istanbul. You can take a walking tour of Balat and hear about the history of the neighborhood, or you can enjoy exploring on your own. It’s full of colors and authentic vibes, great cafés, and lots of small streets to explore.